The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 160

Olivia

The following morning dawned bright and clear. I was up early, reviewing my notes on the Thompson Hotels project and mentally preparing for our meeting with Andrew Thompson.

Alexander had arranged for us to meet at The Terraces, an exclusive restaurant in Beverly Hills known for its impeccable service and discretion.

I carefully selected a navy blue dress that was professional yet flattering. I paired it with modest heels and subtle jewelry, as I wanted to look poised and confident.

“Ready?” Alexander asked, appearing in the doorway of our bedroom. He looked impeccable in a charcoal suit that emphasized his broad shoulders.

I nodded, smoothing down my dress one last time.

Alexander’s eyes softened as he approached me. “You look beautiful. And more importantly, you know this project better than anyone. Thompson would be a fool to go with any other proposal.”

His confidence in me was reassuring. “Thanks. Let’s go show him that.”

The drive to The Terraces was quiet, and both of us were lost in our thoughts. The morning traffic moved surprisingly well, and we arrived at the restaurant with time to spare.

The Terraces lived up to its reputation. Lush greenery surrounded elegant outdoor seating areas, while the interior featured soaring ceilings and tasteful artwork. A host immediately recognized Alexander and led us to a private dining area with a view of the gardens.

“Mr. Carter,” Andrew Thompson rose from his seat as we approached, extending his hand. “Punctual as always.”

“Mr. Thompson,” Alexander greeted him with a firm handshake. “Thank you for meeting with us on such short notice.”

Andrew turned to me with a warm smile. “Mrs. Carter, lovely to see you again.”

and a server immediately appeared to take our drink orders. Andrew and Alexander opted

say,” Andrew began once the server had departed, “I was surprised to receive your call yesterday. I thought our discussions with Mrs. Carter’s team had concluded

his expression professionally pleasant but serious. “That’s precisely why I wanted to speak with you. We understand there’s been a counteroffer

“News travels fast in this

replied smoothly. “Especially when it concerns a

opportunity to

received an

despite the tension building in my shoulders. “I

admitted. “But she’s partnered with

jaw tightened almost imperceptibly.

tone curious rather than defensive. “I thought our presentation addressed all the concerns you

proposal was exceptional. But as a businessman, I’d be remiss not

I nodded. “Competitive analysis is part of

voice calm but authoritative, “that there are certain legal considerations when changing direction after a

didn’t look concerned. “We haven’t transferred the

understand,” Alexander replied. “But in the interest of transparency, I wanted to

nodded appreciatively. “Always the straight shooter. That’s what I’ve

will be joining us shortly. I thought

question was

Alexander replied smoothly.

to compose myself. The idea of meeting Alexander’s ex–fiancée while

Alexander continued. “The Thompson Hotels rebrand proposal is innovative

it is. Which is why I find myself in a curious position. Two excellent proposals with

being escorted to our table by the maitre d‘, and even from a distance, I could tell this

perfect waves around her shoulders. She wore a cream–colored designer suit and stilettos that added several inches to her